'I did not communicate my intended position well' — Nii Lante Vanderpuye apologises to Sammy Gyamfi, NDC over GoldBod comments

Former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has rendered an unqualified apology to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the party’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, over comments he made during a discussion on Channel One TV concerning the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

In a statement dated August 20, 2026, Mr Vanderpuye said he had reflected on his remarks and recognised that he failed to communicate his intended position appropriately.

He stressed that he never intended to undermine Mr Gyamfi or support attacks against him and GoldBod by members of the opposition.

“I wish to sincerely apologise for my comments during my presentation on Channel One TV this morning. Having had the opportunity to listen carefully to myself and reflect on the discussion, I acknowledge that I did not communicate my intended position in the manner I should have. I take full responsibility for that,” he said.

According to the former minister, his political convictions and commitment to the NDC would not allow him to knowingly make statements that could strengthen the position of the party’s political opponents against one of its members.

Mr Vanderpuye explained that his intention during the television discussion was to defend GoldBod’s work and Mr Gyamfi’s efforts. However, he admitted that his reaction to what he described as sustained propaganda and criticism surrounding the issue created a different impression.

He consequently expressed regret over what he described as an error of judgment and communication, saying he was sincerely sorry for the misunderstanding his comments had caused.

Mr Vanderpuye offered a specific apology to Mr Gyamfi, describing him as a committed NDC member who had served the party with courage and dedication.

He said Mr Gyamfi deserved the support of party members as he discharged the national responsibility entrusted to him, adding that any concerns he might have had should not have been expressed in a manner that could be interpreted as endorsing attacks against the GoldBod CEO.

The former National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme also apologised to the leadership, members and grassroots supporters of the NDC who may have been disappointed or hurt by his remarks.

He acknowledged their concerns, particularly at a time when members of the government and institutions associated with the administration were facing what he described as politically motivated attacks.

Mr Vanderpuye said party members expected those holding leadership positions, as well as those aspiring to higher responsibilities, to demonstrate solidarity, sound judgment and loyalty to the collective interest of the party.

Reaffirming his commitment to the NDC, he said he had spent a significant part of his political life defending the party through difficult personal and political circumstances.

“The NDC is my political home, and my loyalty and commitment to its cause remain unwavering,” he said.

The apology comes amid a heated political debate over the financial performance of GoldBod and losses associated with the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

The controversy intensified following criticisms by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who has demanded accountability over reported losses under the programme.

During the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, August 19, Mr Gyamfi responded strongly to the Minority Leader, describing him as a “noisemaker” and accusing him of having “bastardised and depraved” the office of the Minority Leader.

Mr Vanderpuye’s subsequent comments on Channel One TV attracted criticism from some NDC supporters, prompting his apology and clarification.